Fabio Capello’s departure boosts England, says Steven Gerrard

Steven Gerrard has suggested that the resignation of
Fabio Capello as England manager is good news for the country’s chances of success at Euro 2012 this summer.

Steven Gerrard is now free from injury and starred for Liverpool against Brighton last week (EPA)

The Liverpool captain revealed he was surprised to see the Italian depart his post at the FA, but does not believe the decision will harm the Three Lions when they head to Poland and Ukraine.

Indeed, Gerrard speculated that it may in fact give the team a boost once a new manager is confirmed.

In what could be deemed a snub to Capello, the midfielder told BBC Sport: ‘I don’t think it will affect the England team. We’ll get a new manager â it’s a fresh start for everyone. It may be the lift we need to have a successful summer.’

Capello resigned after challenging the FA’s decision to remove the England captaincy from John Terry â and Gerrard is equally interested in that post.

He said he would love the chance to captain the nation on a permanent basis, describing the opportunity as one that would make him ‘very proud’ and ‘delighted’.

Gerrard was this week named by temporary boss Stuart Pearce in the squad for Wednesday’s friendly against Holland at Wembley, his first call-up in more than a year due to injury.